In our society, given the constant demands of our time and energy, we need to have large reserves of empathy ... it is crucial. Yet all this empathy can also leave you exhausted and unable to care anymore because you’re a giver ... and maybe you just gave too much.

Interestingly, most don’t recognize that they too, need care. Usually, they feel they can handle the pressure. But the most important way to prevent compassion fatigue is to care for yourself beforeyou care for anyone else ... eventually your body will tell your mind ... listen. And this is very different from everyday work stresses as the fatigue results from taking on the emotional burden of a patient’s agony.Some even equate it to a post traumatic stress disorder with symptoms that can range from irritability, disturbed sleep, outbursts of anger, intrusive thoughts and maybe even a desire to avoid anything having to do with the patient's struggle.

... all from trying to help others ...

So some ways that may help relieve the pressures ...

mindful meditation decreases depression and anxiety

writing in a journal helps you express your feelings

grounding yourself daily

taking a vacation or break

asking for help to lighten the load

Care giving is a job ... and for some of us through sickness and in health. So the best you can do for anyone is the best for yourself, because remember ...